Can't afford an Ariel Atom? Sadly, neither can we – especially not the limited-run V8 model. But there is hope for folks like us with bigger eyes than wallets, and it comes in a smaller form.

The Ariel Motor Company has just launched its first officially authorized scale model of the Atom V8, and it's ready to take a place of pride on your desk or bookshelf. It comes in the standard 1:18 scale and appears to be intricately detailed. "The car has been carefully modeled to exactly replicate the real car," according to the statement below, "right down to the builder's plaque on the seat."

Apparently Ariel had been approached by several model manufacturers, but had trouble finding one capable of replicating the details just right before it signed the deal Soul Models from Spain. Only 1,500 will be made, each priced at over $200. That may seem steep for a scale model, but pales in comparison to the $200k Ariel charged for each of the 25 actual Atom V8s it made.

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Ariel Atom Model
At last someone has made a scale model of the Atom!

Following many attempts and enquiries Ariel Motor Company are pleased that a scale model of the Ariel Atom is now available. Probably one of the most difficult car models to make Ariel have assisted Soul Models in Spain in making a 1:18 scale model of the Limited Edition Ariel Atom V8. Featuring the gold chassis and wheels, carbon bodywork, side pods and unique colour scheme of the Atom V8, the car has been carefully modelled to exactly replicate the real car right down to the builder's plaque on the seat.

Said Simon Saunders of Ariel, "We have been approached by a few model makers over the years but when they understand the complexity of modelling the Atom they have all given up at an early stage. We've been keen to see a scale version of an Atom so it's great that Soul Models have taken on the task and produced such a great, detailed model.

The model is limited to just 1500 numbered units worldwide and is priced at £149.94 inc VAT. Models are available from Soul Models in Spain or Ariel Motor Company.

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